Well I have the all-too-common exhaust manifold leak in my 2005 5.4. It started out barely noticeable and on the driver's side. Knowing what a PITA this repair can be, and on the advice of my mechanic, I decided to drive it until I couldn't stand the racket. Well...I can't stand it. Also, it seems that the other side is leaking now.

So I'm wondering if it would be worth it to just go with headers. Since I know it's going to cost a pretty penny in labor either way because I don't think you can ever get these things out without shearing bolts, I thought it might be worth the extra scratch to get a little more "go" with headers. I already have magnaflow high flows and a flowmaster SI/DO muffler so the rest of my exhaust setup is pretty decent.

What do you guys think? Just get new gaskets and have the manifold machined or get headers? Suggestions on brands, types, and best places to buy headers are appreciated.

 

So many threads on this subject... try search engine.

 

http://www.f150online.com/forums/exh...ong-tubes.html

 

Tried that, but thanks for the input!

 

And thanks for the link, 88. Good info there! I'll take that as a vote for headers.

 

Headers

 

headers, without a doubt, get some good stainless ones

Long tubes if you can swing the cash, i love my obx longtubes